LACC Updates Public On Court Decisions In High-Profile Corruption Cases

By Jamesetta D Williams

Monrovia-November 23, 2025: The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has released an update on recent court actions involving two major corruption cases currently under prosecution.

According to the Commission, a significant legal development occurred on Friday, November 21, 2025, when His Honor Judge Papesuah, Presiding Judge of the 10th Judicial Circuit Court in Lofa County, denied the LACC’s motion for a change of venue in the case involving the President of the Lofa County Community College (LCCC), Dr. Isaac P. Podah.

The motion, which was filed earlier on Monday, November 17, 2025, sought to transfer the proceedings out of Lofa County. The LACC argued that Dr. Podah’s continued control over the institution could influence staff, students, and potential witnesses connected to the trial. The Commission also raised concerns that any jury selected within the county would likely include individuals with social, academic, or professional ties to the defendant, thereby risking bias or compromised neutrality. Despite these concerns, the court ruled that the trial will continue in Lofa County.

The Podah case is one of two change-of-venue motions the LACC has filed this month. The second involves the Gbarpolu County “Yellow Machine” Case, in which Superintendent Sam K. Zinnah is standing trial for alleged misuse of a county-owned heavy-duty machine. Similar to the Lofa matter, the Commission petitioned the court to move the case, arguing that Superintendent Zinnah’s executive authority within the county could intimidate jurors or create a sense of obligation, potentially undermining the impartiality of the proceedings.

The LACC emphasized that its actions across both cases are driven by a commitment to ensuring fair, transparent, and unbiased trials. The Commission noted that protecting the integrity of the justice system remains central to its mandate, especially in cases where local influence or political weight may threaten due process.

“The LACC remains steadfast in ensuring that corruption cases are adjudicated without fear, favor, or undue influence,” the statement read. “We will continue to pursue all legal remedies available and work closely with the courts to ensure credible outcomes.”

The update was signed by Deanna W. Seakor, Public Relations Officer of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission.